Evolution: a different view with loss of traits; not Behe (Introduction)

by dhw, Friday, September 18, 2020, 11:09 (1527 days ago) @ David Turell

QUOTE: New University of Colorado Boulder-led research finds that the traits that make vertebrates distinct from invertebrates were made possible by the emergence of a new set of genes 500 million years ago, documenting an important episode in evolution where new genes played a significant role in the evolution of novel traits in vertebrates. (David’s bold)

DAVID: This certainly shows new genes creating new species in vertebrates. So what is Behe showing? Note my bold. This is early speciation in evolution. Perhaps what Behe is showing is the speciation mechanism in late evolution only. The story still unfolds.

dhw: Yes indeed, and may I suggest that this story provides support for my proposal, though I’m happy to modify this by omitting “ongoing” and even “constant”: the process of evolution entails the acquisition of new genes (or new functions for old genes) and loss of unwanted genes, which will be weeded out by natural selection. Now please tell me your objections. Your example above also argues against the theory that evolutionary bb“advances always result from loss of genes”.

DAVID: You are correct. I'm searching, still trying to sort out the issue of DNA loss and evolution, still learning from new information. What appears so far is during recent times modifications come with DNA loss. This current study favors God dabbling new genes rather than a total pre-programming setup. It is one or the other.

Thank you. I’m not convinced that every scientist will come to agree that speciation can only have been caused by your God dabbling rather than preprogramming, but once more I appreciate your integrity in showing us this article to support my proposal.